The Department of Canadian Heritage will invest $32,860 through the Celebrate Canada fund to assist groups and municipalities in Nipissing-Timiskaming organize events for a number of upcoming celebrations over the summer of 2023, including Saint-Jean Baptiste Day (June 24), Canadian Multiculturalism Day (June 27) and Canada Day (July 1).
The Honourable Anthony Rota, Member of Parliament for Nipissing-Timiskaming, says “These are important days to celebrate and recognize as a community. The funding from the Celebrate Canada program gives us an opportunity to come together as a community and take part in events that reflect the history and culture of our region, and our country.”
In North Bay, the O’ Canada Day Committee for the City of North Bay will receive $10,000 for their celebrations of Canada’s 156th birthday. Mayor of the City of North Bay Peter Chirico says, “I would like to thank MP Rota and the federal government for supporting our Canada Day celebrations. These funds will be used to enhance our activities, including an even larger fireworks display. We’re looking forward to the celebrations and encourage everyone come and out and participate.”
As well in North Bay, Les Compagnons des Francs Loisirs will receive $7,500 which will go towards programming for various events over the summer. Anne Brûlé, Programming Officer says, “As a francophone community partner, Les Compagnons des francs loisirs are grateful for the support they have received. This grant provides activities in French to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, St-Jean’s Day, Multiculturalism Day and Canada Day. We are pleased to be able to contribute to community celebrations between June 20 and July 1 with arts, music and fun activities. We look forward to welcoming all members of our communities to these celebrations in collaboration with the municipalities of North Bay and East Ferris, as well as our partners in the Aboriginal community.”
The Municipality of East Ferris will receive $7,000 for a project called “Our Home, Notre Chez-Nous.” Greg Kirton is the Director of Community Services, and he says, “The Municipality of East Ferris is incredibly appreciative to receive Celebrate Canada Funding for our 2023 events. Our project, “Our Home, Notre Chez-Nous” will focus on celebrations for both Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day on June 24th and Canada Day on July 1st. The events will focus on a range of activities suitable for people of all ages and will include indoor and outdoor activities. Some of the events that residents can look forward to including live music and entertainment, a community BBQ, family and children’s outdoor games, a pickleball tournament and a variety of food and drink.”
The Municipality of Powassan is receiving $5,000 for their Canada Day Celebrations. Mayor Peter McIsaac says, “The Municipality of Powassan is very grateful to receive this funding. This money will assist in our annual Canada Day celebration and fireworks.”
And the Municipality of Mattawa will receive $3,360 for the Celebrate Canada Day in Mattawa! Event.
Rota says, “In the coming weeks I look forward to attending these events, and I hope to see everyone in the community there as well.”
Canadian Heritage and its portfolio organizations play a vital role in the cultural, civic, and economic life of Canadians. Arts, culture, and heritage represent more than $57 billion in the Canadian economy and close to 673,000 jobs in sectors such as film and video, broadcasting, music, publishing, archives, performing arts, heritage institutions, festivals and celebrations.
